obviously a very difficult day for everybody in america, but we do appreciate you watching "street signs." cnbc will have continuing coverage of your markets, all your post-close news and, of course, what is going on in newtown, concome our hearts and prayers go out to all those people affected by that. "closing bell" is next. >> i'm bill griffith. welcome to "closing bell." maria will be along here in a few minutes at the new york stock exchange, and we add our sentiments as we continue to update you on the horrific massacre at the connecticut elementary school. our deepest prayers and sympathies to all of the families and others hit by this senseless tragedy. the horror of the story may have muted trading on wall street today, as all priorities are being rearranged in a moment, and we will get you caught up on these markets in just a moment, but first we want to let you know. president obama is set to make a statement on this tragedy from the white house around 3:15 eastern. our john harwood is in washington with some more details on what we know right now. john? >> reporter: well, bil